Andrea Nelson McDonald wrote

I grew up with a friend who was a very devout Christian.  She was taught many wonderful truths -- reading the Bible, giving service, faith in prayer -- but she was also taught some harmful things -- Mormons are bad!  One time we both participated in a meeting of religious high school students.  The organizers hoped to foster respect and understanding among the religions.  But I felt attacked, accused by my friend of not being Christian.  She very strongly stated that she knew what we believed, that she had seen movies about us, and wouldn't listen to what I had to say.

 

But we remained friends through high school graduation. A few years ago we reconnected, and as I had several children and she was expecting her first, I became her parenting consultant.  We talked a lot, mostly about how to keep food down, how to survive a colicky baby, and hoping that some day we'll sleep again!

 

This friend has been divorced twice, and now has two children with her third husband.  He was raised by a single mother, and never met his father.  They want to build a strong family, but doesn't have many resources.  Again, having been married for 16 years, I have become her consultant.  At first I followed the same pattern from when we were pregnant together -- what books have been helpful, which authorities have good ideas.

 

I was very hesitant to tell her which books I really rely on, and which authorities I really trust, because of her earlier attitudes (and because I'm a wimp).  But while talking to her I couldn't keep talking shallowly about tips and suggestions.  I finally bore my testimony that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches us how to have strong families, and that the Church is led by a living prophet, who guides us today.

 

She responded very positively, saying that she thinks that "there is something different about the Mormon Church."  She said she would be nervous to attend, not knowing what to expect, or if she would be turned away at the door.  I explained how the meetings are run, and reassured her that she was welcome.  I also directed her to some Church-sponsored

web sites.

 

I haven't heard back from her, but I am so happy that her attitude toward the Church has changed so much.  And even if she never pursues anything more regarding the Church, I have been changed.  I feel more courageous and more ready to bear my testimony.